"Requiem to the Azure Firmament"

Author: Jin Hui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: The long report literature "Sorrowful Inquiry to the Heavens—Remembrance of Japanese Atrocities in China" is approximately 380,000 words (published by the Literature and Art Publishing House of the People's Liberation Army in June 1995, revised and reprinted in March 1998). The book consists of two main parts: "Remembrance" contains over 400 entries and 113 topics, systematically organizing the Japanese atrocities in China from 1931 to 1945; while the chapters "A Century of Two Nations," "Why Did They Kill," "Why Were We Massacred," and "Through Calamity" explore the invaders from historical, ethnic, cultural, psychological, and sociological perspectives, conducting a philosophical dissection and soul-searching critique. They reflect deeply on the national disaster and offer a cultural examination of war and humanity in the 20th century. This article is an excerpt from the chapter "Through Calamity."
During the War of Resistance Against Japan, the atrocities and blood debts committed by the Japanese army on Chinese soil are innumerable. In every short entry of this book, at least hundreds of innocent souls cry out and scream in protest. Yet, when these entries are compiled into this brick-like book, they only record but a fraction of the Japanese atrocities. The brilliance of the work lies not in "recording" but in "questioning." "Why did they kill?" "Why were we massacred?" The author provides an incisive analysis of the history, culture, mentality, and beliefs of the two nations, with insights so profound and perspectives so sharp that the wording is both pertinent and unique, rivaling the works of Baoyang and William Shirer. Thus, it not only allows us to see this painful page of history but also reveals the deep-rooted layers buried beneath it. Reading it will make us rise up in reflection with a sense of urgency.
Any reflection is for the sake of creating today and the future. The future of China and the direction of the relationship between China and Japan depend on the planning and creation of a new generation from both countries. As our young people embark on this grand endeavor, it would be beneficial to first read this work.